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On 8 March 2007, Los Angeles Opera presented a production of Tannhäuser at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Director Ian Judge evoked an exotic atmosphere with his imaginative recreation of the libretto. The idiomatic lighting by Mark Doubleday was one of the most interesting aspects of this production. Gottfried Pilz's imaginative scenery and updated costumes kept up the visual interest throughout the evening. In this combination of the 1845 Dresden and 1861 Paris versions of the opera, the story was paramount and the director told it in a most understandable manner.

Peter Seiffert was a valiant Tannhäuser who sang with polished tones. A committed Elizabeth, Petra Maria Schnitzer's voice was secure and well projected. As Venus, Lioba Braun portrayed a hard-edged sex goddess who created an expanse of surging sound.

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